Maine delegation urges Trump administration to unfreeze digital equity grants

Maine’s congressional delegation is urging the Commerce Department to reverse its freeze of nearly $35 million in grant funding intended to expand digital access for low-income and rural Mainers. In a letter sent to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and acting Administrator Adam Cassady, the delegation noted that Maine is among the most rural states in the country, leaving its residents particularly vulnerable. “Maine is especially affected by this decision, which will have an outsized impact on Maine families, small businesses and communities. The programs created by the grants would ensure access across Maine to the necessary technology and skills to participate in the digital economy,” said Reps. Jared Golden (D-2nd District) and Chellie Pingree (D-1st District), and Sens. Susan Collins (R-ME) and Angus King (I-ME).